Sony clarifies ongoing PlayStation DRM issue, confirms digital games require a 'one-time online check' to authenticate licenses, but players won't experience any issues beyond that
Sony has confirmed players won't need constant internet access to play digital PlayStation gamesA 30-day license verification countdown has been introduced fpr new digital gamesA one-time online check will be required to validate the game license
Sony has finally responded to the ongoing PlayStation license controversy, confirming that a constant internet connection won't be required to play digital games.
Earlier this week, a new '30-day license check' was spotted on digitally purchased PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 games, immediately raising concerns among users. It was initially thought that the system would revoke game licenses if players didn't log in to their PSN account or connect their console to the internet.
This would apply to digital games bought after the latest March system update, and reportedly not impact previous purchases.
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"Potential major DRM issue rolled out by PlayStation (and Xbox as well, allegedly). All new PSN purchases now have a 30 day validation countdown. Already investigating to find out more details," spotted X/Twitter user 'DoesItPlay'.
However, Sony has now addressed the issue and, at the same time, quelled worries by confirming that users only need to be connected to the internet and complete a one-time license authentication. Beyond that, no further checks will be required.
"Players can continue to access and play their purchased games as usual," a Sony Interactive Entertainment spokesperson told GameSpot. "A one-time online check is required to confirm the game's license, after which no further check-ins are required."
Thankfully, the new system shouldn't cause too much trouble for users, but any PS5 and PS4 digital games bought from the PS Store going forward will need to be authenticated once.
It's suspected that the license check is to prevent potential refund scams, specifically filing for a refund and then immediately disconnecting from the internet to continue playing the game.
In other news, Sony has begun rolling out its new PlayStation age verification system in the UK and Ireland as part of the UK's Online Safety Act (OSA). The process is currently optional, but will become mandatory in June 2026.
Those who don't complete age verification will lose access to many PlayStation communication features like text and voice chat, messaging, Discord voice chat, streaming features, and more.
Users should receive an email asking them to complete the age verification steps. If you haven't received yours yet, you can check out the official FAQ to get started.
